On the subject of Italy - anyone been to Rome?

BT Bob

We're going for 5 days in 3 weeks, primarily for the Italy v Wales 6-Nations match, but looking for some advice around places to eat/drink that are a bit less-expensive than most places we'll find.. (if that makes sense).

I fully accept it's an expensive city, and the €-£ rate isn't doing us any favours, and I'm happy to wander away from the "main" tourist places to find a better value option, but wondering if anyone has any personal recommendations?

We're staying quite close to the Vatican and have a 4-day bus pass so can get around easily enough.

TIA

andy1249

I didnt find Rome “ that” expensive.
Its on a par with Cardiff at Six Nations time.
Certainly not as expensive as the more touristy destinations like Venice etc.

The Jewish Quarter is probably best for eating and drinking, it has a famous Pizza place that sells by the slice and is so gorgeous it will ruin Pizza for you anywhere else in the world.

Chocci

We didn't find Rome expensive either. Trastavere area is relatively cheap and lots to see near the river.

If you are going to the vatican / St Peters cathedral then get your ticket in advance, turn up at 8:45 and head straight to the front of the huge queues (right hand side)

BT Bob

Thanks for the comments - exactly the kind of tips I was looking for

Raymond Lin

Rome is cheap if you walk 2 streets down away from the tourist traps.

Also, try not to drink coffee after 11am, the locals will look at you funny.  And no latte!

andy1249

Because Italy is a “Siesta” country. They call it Riposi.
You dont have a coffee before bed.

Thats another thing to watch out for, the afternoon shutdown.
Always check opening hours.

Cameron583

I found Rome quite pricey for the quality of food. I went for a business trip back in December, and was with someone who was a local in the area, so took me to all the top restaurants etc.

The food was good, but no better than I've had elsewhere, and a little more expensive with the poor GBP to EUR conversion.

Quick reminder about city tax - I stayed in a 4 star "style" hotel, that was actually classed as a B&B, right by the Vatican, so I had excellent service etc, but cheaper tax.

Don't use Uber - you can only get the executive cars, which are more expensive. Use MyTaxi

Take comfy shoes.

If you're an ice cream fan, then the best place I found (I tried 15  places over the week I was there ) is this: Home - Gelateria Old Bridge

I recommend trying out a rooftop restaurant - you get some really fantastic views of the city. I also recommend doing your tourist viewing at night, as it'll be much quieter

BT Bob

Never drink Latte anyway

Brilliant - ta.

Now we're cooking with gas - thanks. Had some great gelato when we visited the Amalfi coast, so looking forward to giving a go in Rome - so that's a huge help. I've also heard the "evening" tip from another mate, so thanks...

BT Bob

The ancient sites in central Rome are obvious and need no reminders, but may I commend a very nearby excursion of high quality and unforgetability. I think on a 5 day trip you might be up for one - especially one this close.

Ostia Antica - the old harbour town of ancient Rome, now a bit inland as the landscape changed. Walking around Ostia you are not surrounded by city, so you somehow feel more 'there'. Its hard to explain. The intact parts of cobbled roads are great - and here's a photography tip; crouch down low and take shots of Ostia along the road.
You can go on a tour but you can also get there yourself - a train goes I think.
It really really is worthwhile.
Check the opening hours as from memory they could be quite fickle ( days of week shut, holiday hours if at all, etc )

Website :

Ostia - Harbour City of Ancient Rome

Lovely video !

In a way this gives away too much ! But its lovely and does show off Ostia well. Watch full screen.

BT Bob

Something else that just popped into my head .........

Probably the best ever tv show to do with Rome is the HBO series, Rome

If you haven't seen it but you're thinking about going to Rome, this would be a great interest builder !

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Rome-Complete-Collection-Blu-ray-Region/dp/B002MGJSQW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1548452161&sr=8-1&keywords=rome blu hbo

Currently £35 for both seasons together. You're getting a lot for your money here.